“There’s a few houses going up, but still no industry,” said Semmelrock, 73. “We’ve got open space, people moving in, but no banks. And you don’t want to run out of gas here, since the nearest station is 10 miles away.”

Scotland could be looking at some more changes, according to recent population projection. The Connecticut State Data Center found Scotland’s population is expected to increase by 59.9 percent, or by 778 more resident, by 2030.

Lacking a strong economic base, any municipal expansions prompted by an increased population would have to be funded through property tax increases, Semmelrock said.
“I’m not surprised to hear we’re growing,” said Heather Vieira-Deschene, 36. “Just in the last few years, we’ve added a new pre-school, fire station and library. And with the new people moving in, this town is becoming the new Colchester.”

Vieira-Deschene said her biggest concern is whether the school system can handle the anticipated influx of new students in the next two decades. She said Scotland Elementary already is crowded, and Parish Hill High School only recently came off academic probation.

For Gail Rogers, Scotland is, above all, a town that embraces its small town identity. Rogers, who moved to town a couple years ago, said she migrated from Montville specifically for the neatly trimmed town green, the woodsy spaces and less-frantic pace.

“When I come home, it’s like I’m away from the world,” said Rogers, 49. “And, I’m willing to pay higher taxes to keep this type of atmosphere.”